134 LearnersLast updated on July 22nd, 2025
Not Equal
When two quantities are different, we represent them using the "not equal" or "not equal to" sign. The "not equal sign (≠)" can be used to indicate inequality when two values are not equal. In this article, we will be discussing the “not equal” symbol and its applications.
What is the “Not Equal Sign” in Math?
The not equal sign (≠) is used to indicate the inequality of two quantities. For example, if a and b have different values, then we can write a ≠ b. This sign provides a concise representation of inequality between two quantities.
How to Show “Not Equal”?
The not equal sign (≠) is used to show the relation between two unequal quantities.
For example:
5 + 4 ≠ 6 → because 5 + 4 equals 9 and not 6.
x ≠ y → This means the value of x is not equal to the value of y.
Real-Life Applications of Not Equal
“Not equal to” has several practical applications. Let’s see how “not equal to” applies to real-life scenarios:
- Using the concept of “not equal”, we can compare items of different prices.
For example:
Price of a scrapbook = $15
Price of a pencil = $5
Since 15 ≠ 5, the prices are not equal.
- Varying weather conditions can be represented using the not equal sign.
For example: 16°C ≠ 22 °C
- The not equal sign can be used to express different marks obtained by students.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them in Not Equal
Not equal is an important sign that shows two quantities are different. However, students often make mistakes when using this sign. Here are a few common mistakes and tips to avoid them:
Mistake 1
Confusion Between ≠ and =
Students get confused with the equal (=) and not equal (≠) signs. For example, they might mistakenly write 5 ≠ 5 instead of writing 5 = 5.
Before using the symbol, compare the values and check if they are equal or not.
Mistake 2
Using ≠ instead of > or <
Mixing up symbols can cause confusion and incorrect results. Sometimes, students may use the not equal sign instead of using other symbols like > or <.
For example, writing 20 ≠ 7 instead of writing 20 > 7.
To make the comparisons, always use signs like > or <.
Mistake 3
Solving Both Sides Without Comparing
In some cases, students may evaluate both expressions without comparing values.
Always compare the values and then decide whether to use the equal symbol or the not equal symbol.
Mistake 4
Considering ≠ Sign as Opposites
Students might mistakenly interpret the ≠ sign as denoting that the values are opposite, i.e., one being positive and the other negative.
Keep in mind that ≠ only implies "not equal." The two numbers might have opposite signs or the same signs. The only important thing is that their values are different.
Mistake 5
Ignoring the Complete Equation
Students may not look at both sides of the equation while solving problems.
To avoid this error, always compare both sides and then decide on what symbol to use.
Solved Examples of Not Equal
Problem 1
Jerry scored 65 marks in Math, and Annie scored 76 marks. Can we say their scores are not equal?
Yes, we can say that their scores are not equal.
Explanation
Jerry scored 65 marks and Annie scored 76 marks. 65 and 76 are different. So we conclude that 65 ≠ 76.
Problem 2
Is a ≠ b? Given: a = 11 and b = 25
a ≠ b
Explanation
a has a value of 11 and b has a value of 25. Since 11 is not equal to 25, a ≠ b.
Problem 3
Is 32 not equal to 56?
No
Explanation
Yes, 32 and 56 are different numbers.
So,
32 ≠ 56
Problem 4
A child writes: 6 + 2 ≠ 8 Is this correct?
No.
Explanation
6 + 2 = 8, so using the ≠ sign here is incorrect.
Correct form: 6 + 2 = 8
Problem 5
There are 40 and 35 chocolates in each of the two boxes. Can we say the number of chocolates in both boxes is not the same?
Yes, the number of chocolates in both boxes is not equal.
Explanation
Yes, 40 ≠ 35
So, the number of chocolates is not equal.
FAQs on Not Equal
1.What is meant by the “not equal” symbol (≠)?
2.Is 5 equal to 8?
3.Is it possible to use ≠ in equations?
4.What is the opposite of “not equal to”?
5.State 10 is not equal to 18 using the symbol.
6.How can children in Philippines use numbers in everyday life to understand Not Equal?
7.What are some fun ways kids in Philippines can practice Not Equal with numbers?
8.What role do numbers and Not Equal play in helping children in Philippines develop problem-solving skills?
9.How can families in Philippines create number-rich environments to improve Not Equal skills?
Hiralee Lalitkumar Makwana
About the Author
Hiralee Lalitkumar Makwana has almost two years of teaching experience. She is a number ninja as she loves numbers. Her interest in numbers can be seen in the way she cracks math puzzles and hidden patterns.
Fun Fact
: She loves to read number jokes and games.
